The Houston Texans might have another rookie ready to start on defense come Week 1 against the Indianapolis Colts.
Safety Calen Bullock forced a fumble against Chicago Bears tight end Tommy Sweeny during the second quarter of the Hall of Fame Game, though the Bears recovered to keep the drive alive. The third-round pick also was credited with a tackle.
Calen Bullock #Stockup the rookie has been a tackling machine at camp and in tonights Hall of Fame game had a forced fumble showing his small stature wont be a problem in the nfl pic.twitter.com/W3Otu8Y3ml
— The Ramble (@TheRambletv) August 2, 2024
Bullock, known for his rangy coverage skills during his three seasons at USC, lowered his shoulder to jar the ball loose. Multiple Texans players watched the ball bounce off their hands before Chicago recovered the ball at the Texans’ 48-yard line.
Bears quarterback Brett Rypien connected three plays later with Collin Johnson for a 20-yard touchdown pass to make it 10-7. So far, it’s been an even game between the two sides.
Bullock has mixed in between the first and second-team defense through the early stages of training camp with veteran Eric Murray. With Jalen Pirte moving down into the nickel, Houston must replace his skill set on the back end.
Calen Bullock forced that fumble…
— Nick Schwager (@NickSchwagerNFL) August 2, 2024
It’s still early in Bullock’s career, but the Texans believe he can be a difference-maker in time. For the Trojans, the 6-foot-3 defensive back recorded 15 pass breakups and nine interceptions.
Rookie mistake, but elite play by Calen Bullock. Gotta stay in the play until the whistle.
— Landry Locker (@LandryLocker) August 2, 2024
The Texans, who lead 17-14 at halftime, will kickoff to begin the second half.
